Hair By DeRae in Oklahoma City: Color Specialist in Midtown
Hair By DeRae is a single-stylist salon operating from a private studio in Oklahoma City's Midtown neighborhood, focused on color work and balayage for clients seeking custom hand-painted highlights and tonal corrections.
What Hair By DeRae actually is
DeRae operates as an independent colorist working from a dedicated studio rather than a traditional salon floor. The setup means one stylist, one client at a time, with no walk-ins and no second chair. This model works for clients who prioritize continuity with their colorist and don't need a range of stylists to choose from. The studio location in Midtown places it near the Paseo Arts District, accessible for both OKC residents and those working nearby.
Services and pricing
Color services form the core offering: balayage starts at $150 for shorter hair and ranges to $250 for longer, thicker, or more complex placements. Single-process color runs $80 to $120 depending on length and coverage area. Root touch-ups cost $60 to $90. Tonal corrections and color corrections, which address previous work or damage, begin at $150 and climb based on the extent of processing needed. Blowouts run $35. Cut-and-color packages are available but pricing varies with the combination chosen; calling ahead clarifies exact cost for your hair type and desired outcome. Prices stated here reflect current rates, though like most salons, these shift periodically; confirm current pricing before booking.
How it compares to other Oklahoma City colorists
DeRae's single-stylist model contrasts with salon chains like Ulta Beauty locations across OKC, where color work is one service among many and demand is higher. At a chain, you book a colorist you may not see twice; at DeRae, continuity is built in. Balayage pricing at $150 to $250 sits mid-market compared to high-end salons like those in Bricktown or Plaza District that run $300 and up, and above budget chain pricing at $100 to $130. Choose Hair By DeRae if you want a dedicated colorist relationship and don't need haircuts as your primary service; choose a full-service salon if you want flexibility across multiple stylists and services in one location.
Who it suits and who it does not
This studio works best for clients with a clear color vision, a willingness to commit to the same stylist across multiple sessions (especially for growing out balayage or correcting previous color), and the ability to book by appointment. It does not suit anyone needing walk-in service, last-minute availability, or a stylist rotation. Clients with textured hair seeking specialized cutting alongside color may find a larger salon with more expertise across multiple services more practical.
What the first visit involves
Expect a consultation before any color application. Bring photos of the color you're aiming for, and be ready to discuss your hair history (previous color, damage, texture). DeRae will assess whether your desired outcome is realistic given your hair's current state and may recommend a timeline if major correction is needed. The session itself runs 2 to 3 hours for balayage, less for single-process or touch-ups. Payment is typically cash or card at the appointment.
Hours, parking, and logistics
Verify hours and book appointments directly; salon hours for independent studios in Midtown often run Tuesday through Saturday with occasional Sunday availability, but exact days require confirmation with the studio. Parking in Midtown varies by building; many studios in the area offer dedicated lot parking or street parking nearby. The Paseo location means weekend foot traffic but not high congestion. Arrive 10 minutes early for your first visit.
Hair By DeRae fills a specific niche in Oklahoma City's color market: clients who value stylist consistency and custom color work over convenience and variety will find it a reliable long-term choice.
